Alistair Hardaker
Image: RAMM
Exeter museum begins work with new advisory group following completion of first two-year panel established in 2023.
The Royal Albert Memorial Museum in Exeter has appointed its second community panel cohort, comprising 12 residents from the city and surrounding areas who will serve during 2025-26.
The museum launched the panel initiative in 2023 to enable local people to contribute to programming and wider museum activities. The first cohort completed its term in summer 2025.
Panel members meet quarterly to provide feedback and ideas on museum-related topics. Their input covers areas including exhibition planning, event programming and community engagement project evaluation.
The museum states the panel aims to reflect the diverse community of Exeter and Devon, with the goal of ensuring accessibility and connecting programming to local community interests. No prior experience is required for panel membership, with recruitment open to people from any background.
Discussion topics for panel members include factors that would encourage museum visits, event types that would attract attendance, and ways the museum can improve accessibility and inclusivity. Members may also be asked to share life experiences that could offer new perspectives to the institution.
The museum recruits new panel members annually, with applications typically opening in late spring or early summer for appointment each summer.
